The Beginning of the End of the Judges

This is the study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting on May 16 to study 1 Samuel 1.  This chapter sets the stage for the transition of the people of God from a confederacy into a monarchy.  It is a difficult time, and the people are far from God in many ways.  In the midst of this waywardness of the people, there is also righteousness and faithfulness to God.  There are a lot of contrasts and ironies throughout this book, and ones that follow, many of them are very sad, some extremely shameful.

As you read this chapter be sure to ask questions about the text.  Look for curious things which could be cultural, but are unexplained.  Try to imagine the places things happen.  Pay close attention to descriptions of places because they are so rare.  Details of locations are common, details of places are not; and there is a difference.

After reading through the text several times, consider the questions below as you read through again.  It may be helpful to read through again after considering these questions because you may find things I didn't think to ask.

• What is the meaning of Elkanah's name?  Keep that in mind as we continue.
• What is the meaning of Hannah's name?  Keep that in mind too.
• What is the meaning of Peninnah's name?  You get the idea.
• What is the major difference mentioned between these two wives?
• What was Elkanah's yearly custom, and who was at Shiloh when he went?  Keep those people in mind for later (like next week or the week following).
• What does it mean that Elkanah would give "portions" to his wives and children?  What does that tell you about the sacrificial custom?
• Why would he give double portions to Hannah?
• Look up the word often translated as "rival" or "adversary".  How is it used most often?  How often is it used for a "person"?  Why use that word here, and like that?
• Look up the word for "irritate" or "fret" (KJV).  To what does this normally refer?  What does this tell you about what Hannah does when she's angry?
• How often would this happen?
• What was it that Hannah would not eat?  So is Peninnah successful?
• What does Elkanah say every time this happens?  How is that supposed to help?
• What is the meaning of Eli's name?  Is that what you expected it to mean?  What's missing from his name?
• Where is Eli sitting?  So, where is Hannah praying?
• Hannah makes a vow to God.  What does she want God to do for her, how does she phrase it?
• What does she vow she will do if God gives her a son?
• Why is the "razor" important?  What does that mean?
• What sort of attitude do you detect in her prayer?  So, what sort of attitude is missing?
• What does Eli see and and think is happening?
• What does Hannah reply to him?  What sort of attitude do you detect in her response?
• What does Eli reply, and what is interesting about his reply?
• Now how does Hannah feel?
• What does God do for her, how is it phrased?
• What is the meaning of Samuel's name?  Why does Hannah say she names him that?  What connection do you infer from the name and the explanation?
• How old does he seem to be when he's weaned?
• Why the extra sacrifice when she leaves Samuel with Eli at the temple?

That should be enough to sort through.  Consider any questions that my questions brought up.  Write them down and bring them Thursday.

•